Looking for a quick and affordable getaway from Vancouver this winter?
Look no further than Bowen Island Staycations where you will find the best of all worlds: world-class dining, stunning trails and hikes, beautiful beaches, pubs and distillery, outdoor pursuits and affordable lazy bed and breakfasts. Read below for reasons why Bowen Island is a top BC Staycation spot in Vancouver this winter!
Affordable Vancouver staycations for Fall and Winter are the theme right now with the current world climate.
What better way to ‘stay’ in Vancouver, but be away from all the hustle and bustle of the city? Just a short 20-minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay West Vancouver, Bowen Island is the ultimate winter getaway that is close, affordable, family and pet friendly. We think that Bowen Island is the ultimate Vancouver winter staycation for you. Whether you’re a single or couple, family with kids or dogs, retired or working, adventurous or indoor enthusiast, a Bowen Island staycation is an affordable Vancouver winter getaway for you this season.
Vancouver staycations are oftentimes associated with hotel rooms, nights out dining or partying, going to the movies or casino or attending a live event like a concert or play.
Well, a Vancouver winter staycation on Bowen Island can give you all of this and even more.
Think sunset picnics on the beach, trail riding and running, gourmet meals and strolls along the Pier, whale watching and much more. Find out how Bowen Island is considered a top BC Staycation spot in Vancouver today.
Here is what is in store for you this winter if you choose to stay on Bowen Island BC:
For your affordable winter staycation, you will first arrive at Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver. This idyllic community is where you will find the BC Ferries terminal. The Queen of Capilano will take you from Horseshoe Bay to Snug Cove Bowen Island in only 20 minutes. This short ferry ride is both relaxing as it is scenic. It’s also very affordable! You can stay in your car or walk to the front of the car deck to get the best views of the Straight of Georgia. Upon arriving at Snug Cove ferry terminal, you will feel instantly relaxed and ready for your winter staycation on Bowen Island.
No other Vancouver winter staycation gives you the impressive combination of scenery, affordability and uniqueness just 20 minutes from the mainland. And that’s just the start!
When it comes to eateries and restaurants, Bowen Island has it all.
The Snug Café in Snug Cove and Artisan Eats in Artisan Square prove to be the most popular breakfast and lunch hotspots. During your winter Vancouver staycation on Bowen Island, you can try any of the casual restaurants that include Doc Morgan’s (great views), The Pub on Bowen (family friendly) and Bowen Sushi (really amazing quality). Or, you can opt for some unique gems that include Tuscany Restaurant, Barcelona Tapas & Wine Bar or Rustique Bistro. For some ‘prepare-at-home’ organic and vegan meals, try Alderwood Farms. They also make the best pies! And you can also experience Copper Spirit Distillery and their gin, rye and vodka tasting for something different. Whatever you are looking for in terms of dining and cuisine, affordable Bowen Island will give you the ultimate Vancouver winter staycation options.
If you are looking for something to do outdoors this winter on Bowen Island, go for a walk or trail hike. This is the ultimate outdoor enthusiasts’ playground… amazing trails, viewpoints and not a lot of people!
For scenic and slower paced walks, try the Killarney Lake Loop or Grafton Lake. You could also walk to The Lagoon or through Crippen Park. Trails for the more experienced hikers include Mount Gardner or even a search for the world-famous Mastodon on Bowen Island sculpture.
And don’t forget about the many beaches and coves. Our favourite winter destinations for affordable Bowen staycations in Vancouver include Pebble Beach at The Cape Roger Curtis, Alder Cove, Tunstall Beach, Bowen Bay, September Morn, Apodaca Beach and Scarborough Beach. You can also have a picnic on the beach while you watch the sun setting at The Cape on Bowen Island. Whale watching, storm watching and birding are other popular outdoor activities for those wanting a winter Vancouver staycation on Bowen Island BC. Whatever you choose to do outside, you will certainly find something unique and fun for your outing.
Another reason to choose Bowen Island for your winter staycation in Vancouver is affordability.
The ferry won’t cost you anymore than $50 return for a family of 4. If you get the BC Ferries Experience Card, you can get a discount of up to 35-40% on that fare too. Most Airbnb’s and B&Bs on Bowen Island during the winter cost between less than $100/night to no more than $250/night for up to 4 people. That’s the price of a studio hotel room for 2 people! In addition, many affordable Bowen staycation accommodations have full kitchens and other amenities not available at hotels. You’re also no more than 10 minutes from a beach or the water and the furthest most point from Snug Cove is only 20 minutes away by car. Everything is within a stone throw away from your affordable Bowen Island rental.
This means you have more time to experience, relax and adventure and less traveling and wasting time.
Last but not least, the best Vancouver staycation this winter is Bowen Island because it is extremely dog friendly.
Let’s face it… many of us with dogs and pets don’t want to leave our furry family members at home while we wine and dine. Bowen Island is doggie Disneyland. All beaches and lakes are dog friendly during the winter (no dog restrictions) and many affordable Airbnb rentals are also pet friendly. This means that you can bring you dog to Bowen Island for your Vancouver winter staycation. Not many downtown Vancouver staycation hotel rooms allow pets so this is a huge distinguishing feature.
Affordable winter staycations in Vancouver will become the norm as we navigate through these uncertain times. Staying at home is an option. But getting away to a unique and idyllic community full of life and experiences is such a better option isn’t it?
As the Yukon advertisement reads: Why camp in your backyard when you can experience our unique getaway? Why staycation when you can vacation? The same holds true for Bowen Island staycations this winter. But compared to the Yukon, we are only 20 minutes away by ferry and immensely more affordable.
